In response to Ben Bromley's column Wednesday in the Daily Register, I would like to point out that while Mr. Bromley may be an "artistic" person who can't meet deadlines, he is far from the norm.

I am privileged to know several people involved in the community and academic theater programs in Portage as well as in Stevens Point, where I now attend the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.

These talented people pour their hearts and souls into the theater, putting their lives and, occasionally, their well-being on hold to make sure the community has a wonderful, memorable time.

Although apparently some bad apples have spoiled the bunch for Mr. Bromley, I've heard only stories of late nights spent memorizing and rehearsing, painting sets and sewing costumes. The actors I know, despite age or amateur status, give their all to not only make deadlines, but to fine-tune a performance that will captivate and inspire their audiences.

To claim that all actors are such self-absorbed, shallow people that they care only about "getting their hands on a mocha latte" is insulting and, frankly, ignorant. And to try to pass off the fact that panic is what ultimately creates a successful production is ridiculous.

My congratulations to the Baraboo Theatre Guild for overcoming their obstacle of working with such a "charming" cad.

Erin Mueller, Stevens Point, formerly of Portage